Memorandum No. 4, To the Honourable Donald McLean on Native matters generally in the Province of Auckland. I found on my arrival here, that a ring had been formed for the acquiring of native lands in opposition to Government. They represent considerable capital. I have mixed freely with the members of the ring, and as they think, that I am in opposition to the Government they addressed themselves openly to me for advice etc. It is useless for me to go into particulars more than to state that they are now a disorganized party, and at a meeting yesterday, they concluded to suspend operations, and recall their negotiators, and others connected with the venture, so they are out of the field, I am satisfied that no more companies will be formed for the same purpose in this part